Toyota to add more hybrids.....

Comments

in the latest issue of MT, they state that Toyota is thinking of bringing out a hybrid Tundra for the '05 model year, when they bring out the next gen of that model. Imagine a full-size pick-up with a 10K-pound towing capacity and fuel economy in the mid-20s (or possibly even more around town)!

This would finally be an application that caters to the hybrids' strengths: diesel-like torque at low speeds.

of the in-wheel electrics has GM wavering on whether it wants to pursue the program, doesn't it? With all the plan-changing GM has done on hybrids, I am very curious to see what their first hybrid model looks like that actually makes it to showrooms...

John - Sorry, I thought the Estima used additional motors, connected through a half shaft, which is not the same as an in-wheel design. The source describing GM's efforts makes it "seem" like they have something original.

Giving trucks wheel independent AWD would also improve handling. The affect would be similar to having AWD and a LSD directing the power. And while the motors may add to the unsprung weight, they would probably be lighter (overall) than adding motors and driveshafts.

http://www.lexus.com/about/hybrid/The video is where all the information is hiding...The Lexus RX400H looks like a rebadged RX330 (small SUV/CUV).Uses the new Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive, as seenin the new 2004 Prius.

I believe that the RX330 is the "luxury cousin" ofthe Toyota Highlander, so it would make sense to see a hybrid Highlander around the same time as theRX400H.

City of Aspen has just voted to give any hybrid vehicle free parking and $100 refund on registration. At $1.00 an hour, the parking perq is a pretty good one. I figure to the average citizen the deal is worth maybe $700 a year. Over the course of the vehicle's lifetime (let's say 9 years) that's a pretty good incentive don't you think?

IF this were offered in your town (and if it made some sense where you live to have free parking), would such an incentive possibly tip you over into buying a hybrid?

I live in the Boston area where parking spaces are at a premium,so parking for long periods of time actually decreases foot traffic. Thus we have 2 hour parking limits, and $50 fines. Ironic, as cities are the place where hybrids are most beneficial.